Replacing pullulan with sodium caseinate to enhance the properties of pullulan nanofibres

Abstract

SummaryThis study investigated the feasibility of using sodium caseinate (NaCAS) to improve the properties of electrospun pullulan (PUL) nanofibres. Replacing PUL with 50% NaCAS [50:50(PUL: NaCAS)] resulted in appropriate viscosity for fibre formation (968.93 mPa.s), increased solution conductivity (1682.50 μS cm−1), decreased surface tension (59.55 mN m−1), which led to forming beadles' fibres with the smallest diameter (141.21 nm), highest water contact angles (117°), and highest thermal stability (24.03% residue weight at 600 °C). X‐ray diffraction and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analyses provided insights into nanofibres' structural and chemical properties and indicated successful blending of the PUL and NaCAS. Results indicated that replacing PUL with 50% NaCAS improved fibre properties. These findings contribute to the development of novel biopolymer‐based nanofibres with potential applications in various industries, including food and bioencapsulation.